US20200037793A1 - Crib shield system and other breathable apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus and method for making same utilizing a breathable mesh material having a reduced suffocation resistance level for infant and toddler use. The breathable mesh material includes an inner and outer fabric that includes larger openings on the front substructure than on the back substructure and a pile substructure is integrated and extends between the front and back substructures allowing air to substantially move effectively therethrough.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/589,623, filed May 8, 2017, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/431,517, filed on Mar. 27, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/429,734, filed on Apr. 24, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,220,088, which is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/446,017, filed Jun. 2, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,523,513 issued Apr. 28, 2009, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/738,616, filed Dec. 16, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,055,192 issued Jun. 6, 2006, which claims the priority date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/434,324, filed Dec. 17, 2002. The disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to cribs and other usable objects (e.g., child usable objects). More particularly, the present invention pertains to crib attachments and other breathable apparatus that, for example, protect infants or young children from harm, e.g., crib attachments that prevent or protect infants or young children when in a crib from getting into one or more problematic situations, e.g., getting limbs extended and caught between crib slats or chewing on crib rails, siblings poking sharp objects into the crib, etc.
• For example, conventional baby cribs include side rails that are made up of top and bottom horizontal bars interconnected by a series of spaced supports (e.g., vertical slats). Frequently, babies and toddlers, while sleeping or playing in their cribs, intentionally or accidentally extend their limbs out of the crib between the slats and have difficulty drawing them back into the crib. If this occurs when the child is sleeping, the extended limbs will remain uncovered and become cold, and the child will be ultimately awakened. Many cribs also have headboards and footboards that are also made with spaced-apart supports and the baby may also extend its arms or legs out of the crib between these slats.
• Although various types of apparatus have been used to prevent such problematic situations (e.g., extension of limbs outside of the crib through the spaced-apart supports), many of such apparatus exhibit their own problems. For example, as described herein, ventilation may be problematic (e.g., such as that leading up to and resulting in suffocation). For example, crib bumper pads are widely used in cribs for protecting a child from injury caused by bodily impact of the child against the sides of the crib that define the interior boundary of the crib. However, in many cases, such crib bumpers do not allow for adequate ventilation within the crib and obstruct view of the child.
• Infants usually breathe through the nasal passages. However, during crying or in the event their nasal passages are blocked, infants may breathe through their oral cavities. Mechanical resistance suffocation takes places when respiration is interrupted if these passages are both blocked externally by an object. When respiration is interrupted, CO₂levels in the blood rise. The body's response to this elevation in CO₂levels is to attempt more rigorous respiration. If the agent of suffocation is not removed, the incident may be fatal after two or three minutes. Further, the accumulation of CO₂or other dangerous gases inside the crib may be a possible cause of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Existing crib apparatus, such as crib bumper pads, tend to trap dangerous gases inside the crib. Further, such apparatus may block the passages of infants under certain circumstances.
• Various types of other crib apparatus have been described and attempt to reduce one or more of the above problems. For example, such apparatus are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,408 to Bashista et al., entitled “Mesh Crib Liner,” issued 16 Mar. 1999; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,573 to Wagner et al., entitled “Ventilation Upgrade Kit for a Crib Bumper and Method of Using It.”
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention, as described herein, addresses the problems described above and other problems of prior art systems and methods which will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the description below. Generally, the present invention provides a crib shield system that is breathable, as well as other breathable apparatus (e.g., objects such as blankets, toys, etc.). For example, one crib shield system is for use with a crib that includes a first and second side rail, a headboard, and a footboard connected and sized for receiving a mattress therein. At least one of the first and second side rails includes a top bar and a plurality of spaced support elements.
• The crib shield system according to the present invention for use with the crib includes a first and second side panel, wherein each of the first and second side panels is configured as a separate panel to cover at least a substantial portion of a corresponding side rail with a mesh-type material comprising openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough. Each of the first and second side panels includes at least one fastening apparatus that extends along an entire edge of the side panel to attach the side panel to the top bar of a corresponding side rail. Further, each of the first and second side panels includes at least one other fastening apparatus for securing the side panel to the corresponding side rail.
• In one embodiment of the crib shield system, the system further includes at least one of a first and second end panel. Each of the at least one first and second end panels is configured as a separate panel to cover at least a substantial portion of a corresponding headboard or footboard with a mesh-type material having openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough. Each of the first and second end panels includes at least one fastening apparatus that extends along an entire edge of the panel to attach the panel to a spaced support element of a corresponding headboard or footboard, and further wherein each of the first and second end panels includes at least one other fastening apparatus for securing the panel to the corresponding headboard or footboard.
• In yet another embodiment, the at least one other fastening apparatus of each of the first and second end panels is provided at one or more positions along an edge opposite the entire edge to allow a user to pull the panel taut across the corresponding headboard or footboard when the at least one fastening apparatus extending along the entire edge of the panel is attached to the spaced support element of the corresponding headboard or footboard. Further, it is configured to secure the panel to another spaced support element of the corresponding headboard or footboard using the at least one other fastening apparatus.
• In yet another embodiment of the system, the at least one other fastening apparatus of each of the first and second side panels is provided at one or more positions along an edge opposite the entire edge to allow a user to pull the panel taut across the corresponding side rail when the at least one fastening apparatus extending along the entire edge of the panel is attached to the top rail of a corresponding side rail. Further, it is configured to secure the panel to another portion of the corresponding side rail using the at least one other fastening apparatus.
• Another crib shield system according to the present invention for use with a crib (e.g., wherein each of the first and second side rails extend along a length of the crib between the headboard and the footboard) includes a first panel and a second panel. The first panel is configured to cover at least a portion of the first side rail and to extend along substantially the length of the crib. Further, the first panel is formed substantially of a mesh-type material having openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough and includes at least one fastening apparatus to attach a first end of the first panel to a first portion of the first side rail. Yet further, the first panel includes at least one other fastening apparatus for securing a second end opposite of the first end of the first panel to a second portion of the first side rail.
• The second panel is separate from the first panel and is configured to cover at least a portion of the second side rail and to extend at least along the length of the crib. The second panel is substantially formed of a mesh-type material having openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough and the second panel includes at least one fastening apparatus to attach a first end of the second panel to the crib. Further, the second panel includes at least one other fastening apparatus for securing a second end opposite of the first end of the second panel to the crib.
• In one embodiment of this crib shield system, the second panel is further configured to cover at least a portion of the headboard and footboard, the at least one fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to attach the second panel to one of the headboard and footboard, and the at least one other fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to secure the second panel to the other of the headboard and footboard.
• In another embodiment of the system, the at least one fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to attach the second panel to a spaced support element that forms a part of the headboard, and the at least one other fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to attach the second panel to another spaced support element that forms a part of the footboard.
• Yet further, in another embodiment, the at least one fastening apparatus of the first panel is configured to attach the first end of the first panel to a spaced support element of the first side rail proximate the headboard, and the at least one other fastening apparatus of the first panel is configured to attached the second end of the first panel to another spaced support element of the first side rail proximate the footboard.
• Further, in one or more embodiments of this crib shield system, at least the first panel includes a width that is less than the length of a spaced support element of the first side rail or a width that is less than one half the length of a spaced support element of the first side rail.
• Another crib shield system for a crib that includes a plurality of spaced support elements (e.g., used in defining an interior boundary extending proximate and around a periphery of a mattress disposed within the crib) includes at least one panel configured to cover at least a portion of the plurality of spaced support elements and to extend along at least a portion of the interior boundary. The at least one panel is formed substantially of a breathable integrated padded mesh material and includes at least one fastening apparatus for securing the at least one panel to the crib.
• In one embodiment of this system, the at least one panel may include a first panel and a second panel. The first panel is sized to cover at least a portion of the plurality of spaced support elements that form a part of a first side rail that defines at least a part of the interior boundary and to extend along a substantial portion of a length of the first side rail from a headboard to a footboard of the crib. Further, the first panel includes at least one fastening apparatus to attach a first end of the first panel to one of the plurality of spaced support elements of the first side rail, and also at least one other fastening apparatus for securing a second end of the first panel to another one of the plurality of spaced support elements of the first side rail. The second panel is separate from the first panel and is sized to cover at least a portion of the plurality of spaced support elements that form a part of a second side rail that defines at least a part of the interior boundary and to extend at least along a substantial portion of a length of the second side rail from a headboard to a footboard of the crib. The second panel includes at least one fastening apparatus to attach the second panel to one of the plurality of spaced support elements of the crib, and also includes at least one other fastening apparatus for securing the second panel to another one of the plurality of spaced support elements of the crib.
• In yet another embodiment of the system, the second panel is further sized to cover at least a portion of the headboard and the footboard that defines at least a part of the interior boundary. For example, the at least one fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to attach the second panel to a spaced support element of the headboard and the at least one other fastening apparatus of the second panel is configured to secure the second panel to a spaced support element of the footboard.
• In one or more embodiments of the apparatus or systems described herein, the plurality of spaced support elements covered, at least in part, by the at least one panel form a part of a side rail that is movable relative to a remainder of the crib. Further, one or more of the fastening apparatus may include a hook and loop fastener.
• Further, one or more of the panels of the systems described herein may be formed of a breathable integrated padded mesh material. For example, the mesh-type material may include a front substructure, a back substructure, and a pile substructure integrated with and extending between the front and back substructures. Each of the substructures allows air to substantially move effectively therethrough.
• Yet further according to the present invention, various other breathable apparatus may be provided. For example, an apparatus may include a body portion that includes one or more surfaces. The body portion is, for example, used proximate the mouth of a human being. The body portion may form at least a substantial portion of at least one of a blanket, a baby carrier apparatus, baby clothing, a toy, etc. Further, substantially all of the one or more surfaces of the body portion may be formed of a breathable integrated padded mesh material.
• The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. Advantages, together with a more complete understanding of the invention, will become apparent and appreciated by referring to the following detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a low crib shield system attached to a crib with a side rail of the crib in a raised state.
• FIG. 2A is a top view of one embodiment of a first side panel of the low crib shield system shown inFIG. 1 in an unattached position laid flat.
• FIG. 2B is a top view of one embodiment of a second side panel of the low crib shield system shown inFIG. 1 in an unattached position laid flat.
• FIGS. 2C-2F show details of one embodiment of an integrated padded mesh material that may be used in forming the side panels and the crib shield system shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, as well as other apparatus or objects described in the other figures.
• FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate the attachment of the first and second side panels shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 to a crib according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a full crib shield system attached to a crib with the mattress of the crib in a lowered position and a moveable side rail in a raised state.
• FIG. 5 shows a top view of one embodiment of a side panel for use in the full crib shield system shown inFIG. 4 according to the present invention in an unattached position laid flat.
• FIGS. 6A-6F show various illustrations for use in describing the attachment of the side panel shown inFIG. 5 to a crib side rail according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 7 shows a top view of an end panel for use in the full crib shield system shown inFIG. 4 according to the present invention in an unattached position laid flat.
• FIG. 8 shows an illustration for use in describing attachment of the end panel shown generally inFIG. 7 to a headboard or footboard of a crib according to one embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a general embodiment of a breathable apparatus according to the present invention.
• FIGS. 10A-10C show illustrations of a breathable blanket and a breathable comforter, along with more detail thereof, respectively, according to the present invention.
• FIGS. 11A-11F show various illustrations of breathable apparatus, such as apparatus for carrying or receiving a small child (e.g., a baby) according to the present invention.
• FIG. 12 shows an illustration of one embodiment of a breathable toy according to the present invention.
• FIG. 13 shows a diagram of one embodiment of breathable clothing or wearables according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
• One or more embodiments of crib shield systems shall be described with reference toFIGS. 1-8. Thereafter, various embodiments of other breathable apparatus shall be described with further reference toFIGS. 9-13.
• FIG. 1 shows aconventional crib10. Thecrib10 includes twoside rails12,14, afootboard16, and aheadboard18. The side rails12,14 extend between thefootboard16 andheadboard18 along a length thereof. Theheadboard18,footboard16, and side rails12,14 are connected and sized for receiving a mattress within an interior11 of thecrib10.
• Generally, the side rails12,14,footboard16, andheadboard18 define an interior boundary extending proximate and around a periphery of themattress26 disposed within thecrib10. Themattress26 is supported within thecrib10 by various structure not shown inFIG. 1. For example, a bottom structural member may be supported at one or more positions about the interior boundary of the crib10 (e.g., elements attached to cornerposts36,38,31,33) or in any other fashion. In manyconventional cribs10, themattress26 and/or a supporting member therebelow may be raised and/or lowered. For example, as shown inFIG. 1, themattress26 is in a raised state. On the other hand, as shown inFIG. 4 (to be described further herein), the mattress is shown in a lowered state. The lowered state is closer to the ground or floor upon which thecrib10 is positioned than the raised state.
• Theside rail12 generally includes atop bar22 and abottom bar24 positioned substantially parallel to one another. A plurality of generally vertically-spacedside support elements20 extend between the horizontaltop bar22 andhorizontal bottom bar24. Theside rail12 in many conventional cribs is moveable from a raised state to a lowered state. For example, themoveable side rail12 allows a user to lower theside rail12 in order to have easier access to a child lying onmattress26. As shown inFIG. 1,side rail12 can be raised or lowered relative to supportstructure element39 and the remainder of thecrib10. The present invention allows for theside rail12 to be moved from a lowered state to a raised state, or vice versa, even with thecrib shield system40 attached to thecrib10.
• Side rail14 may be similarly configured like that ofside rail12. In other words,side rail14 may be moveable from a lowered to a raised state, and vice versa. However,side rail14 may also be in a stationary position fixedly attached to cornerposts36,31. Likewise,side rail12 may be moveable or in a fixed position. As moveable side rails are conventional configurations, no further description is provided with respect to the mechanisms for allowing such movement thereof. The crib shield systems described herein work with various mechanisms for moving side rails, e.g., side and bottom latch systems and gliding side mechanisms.
• Headboard18 ofcrib10 includes an upper bar32 (e.g., in a decorative curved shape) as well as a bottomhorizontal element43, each connected in a fixed position to cornerposts36,38. In a similar manner to the side rails12,14, generally vertically-spacedsupport elements34 extend between thetop bar32 and thehorizontal element43. It will be recognized that many cribs may or may not have spaced support elements that define a part of thefootboard16 orheadboard18. For example, the headboard and footboard may be solid materials as opposed to spaced-apart supports. Thefootboard16 is configured in a manner like that ofheadboard18 and includes corner posts31,33.
• As shown inFIG. 1, the plurality of spaced-apartside support elements20,34 of the side rails12,14 and the headboard andfootboard16,18 are used to define the interior boundary extending proximate and around the periphery of themattress26 disposed within thecrib10. In one embodiment, and as shown inFIG. 1, at least one panel is sized for covering at least a portion of the plurality of spaced-apart side support elements and configured to extend along at least a portion of the interior boundary. As is described herein, in one preferred embodiment, substantially the entire panel is formed of a breathable integrated padded mesh material and the panel includes at least one fastening apparatus for securing at least one panel to thecrib10.
• As used herein, the term mattress may include any structure disposed withincrib10 and upon which objects and/or human beings may be placed. In other words, mattress refers to any structure and not just a soft sleeping apparatus. For example, the crib could be configured into a playpen-type structure with a solid hard and/or flat bottom that is, for example, lowered very close to the floor. As such, and as used herein, a crib can be equated to and encompasses the various structures similar to a crib, such as those for containing a small child (e.g., playpens, portable cribs, convertible cribs, round cribs, or other structures including, for example, spaced-apart side supports which require an apparatus or system such as that described herein).
• As further shown inFIG. 1,crib shield system40 is attached tocrib10 along a substantial portion of the interior boundary of thecrib10 defined by theheadboard18,footboard16, and side rails12,14. As shown inFIG. 1, afirst side panel42 is attached toside rail12. Further, asecond side panel44 is attached for coveringside rail14,footboard16, andheadboard18. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that thesecond side panel44 may also be configured to cover just thesecond side rail14 and the footboard16 (e.g., such as when theheadboard18 lacks vertical spaced-apart side support elements), or may cover justside rail14 and headboard18 (e.g., such as whenfootboard16 lacks spaced-apart side support elements). In other words, the configuration of thesecond side panel44 may differ depending upon the configuration ofcrib10 upon which it is attached.
• FIG. 2A shows thefirst side panel42 in an unattached laid flat position. Thefirst side panel42 includes abody46 formed of a mesh-type material that extends along the length (L panel1) from afirst end48 of thefirst side panel42 to asecond end50 of thefirst side panel42. The length (L panel1) of thefirst side panel42 is sized for allowing attachment to theside rail12 ofcrib10. For example, the length (L panel1) is slightly longer than the distance between spaced-apartside support elements27,29. In such a manner, thefirst side panel42 can be wrapped about suchside support elements27,29 and fastened thereto using hook andloop closures52,54, as is further described herein with reference toFIG. 3A.
• Thebody portion46 has a width (W panel1) that is less than a length (L support as shown inFIG. 1) of a vertical spacedsupport element20 of thefirst side rail12. Preferably, the width (W panel1) is less than one-half the length (L support) of the vertical spacedside support element20.
• Thefirst side panel42 includes afirst fastening apparatus52 at thefirst end48 of thefirst side panel42 and asecond fastening apparatus54 at thesecond end50 of thefirst side panel42.Fastening apparatus52 includesfastening portions53,55, such as hook and loop closures (e.g., Velcro). In one embodiment,fastening apparatus54 is the same asfastening apparatus52, however, such closure structures may also be different.
• Various fastening apparatus may be used to attach the first side panel as well as the other panels as described herein to a crib. For example, various types of fastening apparatus may include hook and loop closures (e.g., Velcro), snaps, buttons/buttonholes, ties, straps, buckles, zippers, etc. Although hook and loop fasteners are preferable, any other closure or fastener apparatus suitable for attaching panels tocrib10 may be used.
• In one embodiment, a finishingedge material58 is provided along the periphery of thebody portion46. For example, as shown inFIG. 2A, a finishing edge material (e.g., a decorative material) may be used along edges61-64.
• FIG. 2B shows thesecond side panel44 in an unattached laid flat position. Thesecond side panel44 includes abody portion70 that extends along a length (L panel2) from afirst end72 thereof to asecond end74 of thesecond side panel44. The length (L panel2) of thesecond side panel44 is sized for allowing attachment to footboard16 andheadboard18 and acrossside rail14 ofcrib10. For example, the length (L panel2) is slightly longer than the combined lengths of the three sides of the crib10 (i.e., the lengths of thefootboard16,headboard18, and side rail14). In such a manner, thesecond side panel44 can be wrapped aboutsupport elements19,35 and fastened thereto using hook andloop closures76,78, as is further described herein. Further, thesecond side panel44 has a width (W panel2) that, at least in one embodiment, has substantially the same width as the width (W panel1) offirst panel42.
• Further,second side panel44 includesfastening apparatus76 atfirst end72 of thesecond side panel44 andfastening apparatus78 at thesecond end74 of thesecond panel44.Such fastening apparatus76,78 are substantially similar to the hook and loop fasteners described with respect tofirst panel42. Further, in a like manner, finishingedge material80 may be used around the perimeter of thebody portion70 as shown by the finishingmaterial80 along edges81-84.
• The mesh-type material of thebody portion46 offirst side panel42 andbody portion70 ofsecond side panel44 may include any suitable mesh-type material that provides breathable functionality. Breathable functionality refers to the ability of the material to allow air to substantially move effectively therethrough. As used herein, when air is indicated as substantially moving effectively through a material, it is meant that the material includes openings (e.g., mesh openings, open-framework, spaces between elements thereof, or even those that may not be visually perceivable openings but still allow a breathable function to occur) that do not impede air movement to an extent that would prevent a human being from breathing through (e.g., when a human's respiratory openings (e.g., nose/mouth) are in direct contact with a material) such a material in order to prevent suffocation and further that such openings are too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough. For example, such materials may include cotton, silk, polyester, nylon, etc.
• In one embodiment, the mesh-type material may include a mesh available from Apex Mills, Inc. under the trade designation TA1 Mesh. However, other various similar mesh materials (e.g., mesh material having suitable openings are available). A Suffocation Hazard Assessment was performed by RAM Consulting (Oak Brook, Ill.) (e.g., the Assessment is further described herein and for which protocol is available from RAM Consulting) on the TAI Mesh resulting in average readings of 1.6 cm H₂O and, for an upper specification limit of 5 cm H₂O, a Z-value of 9.0 was obtained.
• Preferably, the mesh-type material is a breathable integrated padded mesh material300 (e.g., a padded spacer mesh), such as that show generally inFIGS. 2C-2F. The breathable integrated paddedmesh material300 includesopenings349 on afront substructure391 thereof, as shown in top view of thematerial300 ofFIG. 2C. As shown in the cross-section of the breathable integrated paddedmesh material300 inFIG. 2F, thematerial300 further includes aback substructure392. Apile substructure393 is integrated with and extends between the front andback substructures391,392. Each of the substructures (e.g., the front, back, and pile substructures) allows air to substantially move effectively therethrough. Thematerial300 is further shown in the perspective views ofFIGS. 2D-2E.
• It will be recognized that the thickness of the padded mesh material may vary, as well as for other materials described herein. For example, more padding may create a softer more plush effect with slightly different breathability/ventilation properties and more opaqueness (e.g., less light transmissive) whereas less padding may create more breathability and buoyancy with less opaqueness (e.g., more light transmissive). Preferably, the panels described herein are at least somewhat transparent such that at least motion of the child in the crib can be seen.
• Yet further, the padded mesh material is collapsible. As such, when installed or uninstalled, should a child stand on it, the material will collapse. This reduces the risk of the mesh material being leverage to a climbing infant (unlike most conventional bumpers).
• In one embodiment, the breathable integrated paddedmesh material300 is a woven polymeric fiber mesh material that includes larger openings on thefront substructure391 than on theback substructure392 and to whichsuch substructures391,392 are woven using the fibers that are provided as part ofpile substructure393. In such a manner, these fibers that form a part of thepile substructure393 are integrated with and extend between front andback substructures391,392. In other words, they form a unitary structure. This is substantially different than a structure whereby a mesh material or some other material is provided as the back or front covering with a pad material therebetween (e.g., a pad quilted in between a front and back material or a pad laminated between a front and back material). Such a layered structure is not, and does not, provide the same functionality as an integrated (i.e., unitary) breathable paddedmesh material300, such as shown inFIGS. 2C-2F.
• In one embodiment, for example, the breathable integrated paddedmesh material300 may include a padded spacer mesh available from Apex Mills, Inc. under the trade designation DNB27 Spacer Mesh. However, other various similar padded spacer mesh materials are available.
• In another embodiment, the mesh-type material is a breathable integrated padded mesh material in combination with one or more other material layers. For example, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may be used in combination with one or more layers of other material adjacent to (e.g., one material laid flat against the other) either the front substructure and/or back substructure of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. In various embodiments of such a combination, one or more layers of material may be used adjacent the front substructure, one or more layers of material may be used adjacent the back substructure, or one or more layers of material may be used adjacent the front substructure and the back substructure. For example, such additional layers may be layers of cotton material, knit jersey material, etc. Such additional material layers may provide additional benefits such as, for example, thermal properties with breathability.
• Further, for example, the breathable integrated padded mesh material when used alone, or in combination with one or more additional layers, may be any breathable integrated padded mesh material that has a suffocation resistance level of less than about 15 cm H.sub.2O, and preferably less than about 5 cm H₂O. Such a suffocation resistance is determined according to the RAM Consulting Virtual Child Suffocation Hazard Assessment Model which is a physical model and testing methodology that quantitatively assesses the potential suffocation hazards posed by various types of materials. The details of this Model are available from RAM Consulting (Oak Brook, Ill.). Further, according to this Model, Z-values are determined that are statistical measurement tools that describe and predict product performance in relation to its specification limit (e.g., such as those described below). For example, the suffocation resistance limit of 5 cm H.sub.2O is an upper specification limit for materials or products that foreseeably are used and/or intended for young infants with high accessibility; and further, the suffocation resistance limit of about 15 cm H₂O is an upper specification limit for other materials or products (e.g., those for toddlers). A Z-value of 4.0 or greater with the corresponding upper specification limit for each applicable testing technique is required for a product to be classified as a very low suffocation risk. The details regarding the determination of Z-values are available from RAM Consulting (Oak Brook, Ill.).
• Suffocation Hazard Assessment was performed by RAM Consulting (Oak Brook, Ill.) on various configurations using the breathable integrated padded mesh material available from Apex Mills, Inc. under the trade designation DNB27 Spacer Mesh.
• 1 Configuration 1: Single Layer of Padded Spacer Mesh Configuration 2: Layer 1: Padded Spacer Mesh Layer 2: Cotton Configuration 3: Layer 1: Knit Jersey Layer 2: Padded Spacer Mesh Layer 3: Cotton Configuration 4: Layer 1: Cotton Layer 2: Padded Spacer Mesh Layer 3: Cotton Configuration 5: Layer 1: Knit Jersey Layer 2: Padded Spacer Mesh Layer 3: Knit Jersey Configuration 6: Layer 1: Padded Spacer Mesh Layer 2: Flannel Fabrics tested: Knit Jersey Manufacturer: NATEX Content: 50% Polyester/50% Cotton Knit Jersey Style#: INT Cotton Manufacturer: SOUTHERN BELLE Content: 100% Cotton Style#: L93N67 Flannel Manufacturer: QUILTERS CORNER Content: 100% Cotton Style#: RN41324
• A screening was performed on all configurations in both a dry and wet state. The spacer padded mesh when layered with fabrics resulted in a satisfactory reading based on values in cm H₂O, wherein the specification upper limit for products young children are intended to lie on is equal to 5 cm H₂O (e.g., mattress pads or items young infants are intended to have their face on) and wherein the specification for products young children are not intended to lie on is equal to 15 cm H₂O.
• Four individual readings were performed with an average being determined. Dry state readings did not register, thus presenting very low hazard when the configurations were dry (i.e., under the 5 cm H₂O specification limit). In the wet state (after application of 8 ml of sprayed on water), the average readings for the configurations were between 4.6 cm H₂O and 6.2 cm H₂O.
• For the individual single layer of spacer padded mesh, average readings of 1.7 cm H₂O were taken. Further, for an upper specification limit of 5 cm H₂O, a Z-value of 9.5 was obtained.
• As shown inFIG. 1, thefirst side panel42 is attached tofirst side rail12 by wrappingfirst end48 of thefirst spacer panel42 about spacedside support element27 and mating the hook andloop fastener portions53,55 as shown inFIG. 3A. Thesecond end50 offirst spacer panel42 is wrapped aroundside support element29 andfastening apparatus54 is used to hold the first side panel in place. For example, in one embodiment, thefastening apparatus54 is attached to theside support element27. Thereafter, the user pulls the panel taut across the plurality of spacedside support elements20 by pulling on thesecond end50 containing thefastening apparatus54.Fastening apparatus54 is the attached to supportelement29 in such a manner to hold the taut panel in place. As such, thefirst side panel42 is prevented from slipping after being attached to the spacedside support elements27,29.
• In at least one embodiment, thefirst side panel42 is configured to cover at least a portion of thefirst side rail12 and to extend substantially along the length of thecrib10. As used herein when a panel extends substantially along the length of thecrib10, it will be recognized that the panel may not extend completely along the entire length, but may end proximate the headboard and footboard. For example, depending upon the fastening techniques used, the panel may be attached a short distance from the corner posts of the crib (seepanel42 as shown inFIG. 1).
• In a like manner,second side panel44 is attached to thecrib10. For example, thesecond end74 of thesecond side panel44 is wrapped about spacedsupport element35 ofheadboard18. Fastening apparatus78 (e.g., Velcro closures) is used to fasten thesecond end74 about thesupport element35.
• Further, as shown inFIG. 1, thebody portion70 of thesecond side panel44 is fed to the inside of the crib10 (e.g., to the inside portions of support elements34) and thereafter fed to the outside of thecrib10 and aroundcorner post36. Thebody portion70 is continued to be fed back into the inside of the crib10 (e.g., to the inside of the support elements of the second side rail14) and thereafter fed once again to the outside of thecrib10 and around corner post31 (seeFIGS. 3B-3C). Thereafter, thebody portion70 of thesecond side panel44 is fed to the inside of thecrib10 once again at thefootboard16 and then wrapped aroundsupport element19 offootboard16 in a similar manner to the fastening of thesecond side panel44 aroundsupport element35 ofheadboard18.
• One will recognize that the second side panel may be attached to any number of different support elements, may be fed around and/or to the outside of one or more spaced support elements, and, as with thefirst side panel42, is pulled taut prior to fastening to keep thesecond side panel44 in position. Further, the weaving of thesecond side panel44 around the corner posts and/or around one or more of the spaced support elements also assists in maintaining thesecond side panel44 in position (e.g., in a position higher on thecrib10 when the mattress is raised relative to the floor and lower in thecrib10 when the mattress is lowered to the floor). In addition, any of the panels may be positioned such that a portion of the panel is below the upper surface of the mattress (e.g., a few centimeters below the surface along the side of the mattress) to assist in securing the crib and preventing arms and legs from going under the panel.
• As shown inFIG. 4, thecrib10 is substantially the same as that shown inFIG. 1 except that themattress26 is in a lowered position. However, theside rail12 is a side rail that can be lowered or raised, as desired. Like thecrib shield system40 inFIG. 1,crib shield system100, shown inFIG. 4, allows theside rail12 to be moved even with thecrib shield system100 attached tocrib10.
• Crib shield system100 includes afirst side panel102 and asecond side panel104 for attachment to respective side rails12,14. Further, thecrib shield system100 includes afirst end panel106 for attachment to thefootboard16 and asecond end panel108 for attachment to theheadboard18.
• FIG. 5 shows thefirst side panel102 ofcrib shield system100 in an unattached laid flat position. Thefirst side panel102 includes abody portion120 formed of a mesh-type material. In one embodiment, the mesh-type material is an open framework material that includes openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough. However, any mesh-type material described herein may be used as well.
• Thebody portion120 extends along a length (L panel1) extending from afirst end122 of thefirst side panel102 to asecond end124 thereof. Further, the laid flatfirst side panel102 has a width (W panel1) that is sized to cover at least a substantial portion ofside rail12.
• As used herein, when referring to the covering of a substantial portion of a side rail (or headboard or footboard, at least two-thirds of theside rail12 is covered. However, the first side panel may cover less than a substantial portion. For example, the first side panel may cover just a majority of theentire side rail12.
• Thefirst side panel102 further includes afastening apparatus126 that extends along anentire edge144 of theside panel102 for use in attaching theside panel102 to thetop bar22 of theside rail12, as is shown in further detail inFIGS. 6A-6D. Thefastening apparatus126, at least in one embodiment, includes first andsecond fastening portions147,148 that are both for mating with one another in order to hold thefirst side panel102 in a fixed position relative toside rail12.
• As shown inFIG. 6A, thefastening apparatus126 includes a paddedportion150 that is wrapped aroundtop rail22 such that first andsecond fastening portions147,148 can be placed in contact with one another. As a result, the paddedportion150 covers thetop bar22 of theside rail12. With use of thefastening apparatus126 that extends along theentire edge148 of thefirst side panel102, thefirst side panel102 can be fixed in a stable position with respect toside rail12. For example, thefirst side panel102 can be fixedly positioned to prevent movement thereof relative to theside rail12 using one or more other various fastening apparatus.
• For example, as shown inFIG. 5, closures127-128 provide for additional affixing functionality about thetop bar22 of thecrib10. In addition, closures129-130 assist in affixing thefirst side panel102 to respective corner posts38,33. Yet further, for example, a plurality of closures131-133, located opposite theedge144 can be used to attach thefirst side panel102 tobottom bar24 of theside rail12 such that thepanel102 is held in a taut manner across the plurality ofsupport elements20.
• One skilled in the art will recognize that many types of closures may be used to provide the attachment functionality, such as those described previously herein with respect tocrib shield system40. In one particular embodiment, all of the closures are provided with hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro fasteners). In such a manner, no ties are necessary, which eliminate additional material that could be grabbed by a small child and pulled upon.
• FIGS. 6A-6D show further detail illustrating the attachment of thefirst side panel102 to thecrib10.FIG. 6A shows thefastening apparatus126 wrapped around thetop bar22 of thecrib10 and, in particular, aclosure130 wrapped around post33 but not yet in a closed position.
• FIG. 6B shows theclosure130 in a wrapped around configuration and closed (e.g., the hook and loop fasteners in direct contact with one another and providing attachment to corner post33).
• FIG. 6C shows thefastening apparatus126 in further detail, including fastening portions147-148 andclosure127 in a partially unattached configuration.
• FIG. 6D shows a cross-section view of thetop bar22 having the paddedrail cover portion150 wrapped therearound.
• FIG. 6E shows one of the bottomclosure strap attachments133 used to wrap aroundbottom bar24. Thestrap attachment133 is shown in a partially closed position with a part of the hook and loop fasteners in direct contact.
• FIG. 6F shows a cross-section of thebottom bar24 havingstrap attachment closure133 wrapped therearound and in a fastened configuration.
• It will be readily understood thatsecond side panel104 is substantially similar to that offirst side panel102. In addition, the attachment ofsecond side panel104 toside rail14 is performed in substantially the same manner as the attachment offirst side panel102 toside rail12 ofcrib10.
• FIG. 7 shows theend panel108 in an unattached laid flat position. Theend panel108 includes abody portion160 of mesh-type material like that described with respect tofirst side panel102 which extends along a length (L panel2) from a first end162 to asecond end164 of theend panel108. Further, theend panel108 has a width (W panel2) that along with length (L panel2) is sized to cover a substantial portion ofheadboard18. Theend panel108 includesfastening apparatus166, for example, along theentire edge183 of thebody portion160 for use in attachment of theend panel108 to asupport element37 of theheadboard18. Thefastening apparatus166 includes fastener portions168-169 and abody portion170. Thebody portion170 is wrapped around thesupport element37, as shown in further detail inFIG. 8, with the fastener portions168-169 placed in direct contact with one another to provide attachment of theend panel108 to the headboard118. The fastener portions168-169 are preferably hook and loop fasteners to provide a consistent closure along the entire width (W panel2).
• At least one other fastening apparatus, such asfastening apparatus176, are provided at one or more positions along anedge184opposite edge183 to allow a user to pull the panel taut across the headboard118 when fasteningapparatus166 has been attached to supportelement37.Such fastening apparatus176 can be thereafter used to secure theend panel108 aroundsupport element35 and maintain theend panel108 in a taut position adjacent thesupport elements34. In one embodiment, thefastening apparatus176 includes hook and loop fasteners177-179 (e.g., Velcro closures) positioned alongedge184 using a body ofmaterial193 that can be wrapped aboutsupport element35.
• FIG. 8 shows an illustration of attaching theend panel108 to headboard118. For example, as shown therein,closure177 is in an unattached configuration, whereasclosures178,179 are in a fastened configuration Likewise,fastening apparatus166 along the first end162 of theend panel108 is shown in a partially fastened configuration.
• It will be readily understood thatsecond end panel106 is substantially similar to that offirst end panel108. In addition, the attachment ofsecond end panel106 to thefootboard16 is performed in substantially the same manner as the attachment offirst end panel108 to headboard18 ofcrib10.
• Both theside panel102 and theend panel108 may be provided with associated finishing material for functional or decorative purposes (e.g., to prevent the fraying of mesh material ofbody portion120, to provide further padding, etc.). For example, as shown inFIG. 5, finishingedge material138 may be used along edges141-143. Likewise, as shown inFIG. 7, finishingmaterial172 may be used along edges181-182. Further, it will be recognized by one skilled in the art that various types of materials may be used along the edges and in combination with various fastening apparatus for attaching the panels to thecrib10. However, preferably, substantially the entire exposed portions of the panels (e.g., exposed to a child in the crib) are formed of the mesh-type material.
• As used herein, when reference is made to the panels having substantially the entire exposed portions thereof being formed of the mesh-type material, it means that at least two-thirds of the exposed portions are formed thereof. However, in some configurations, less than substantially the entire exposed portions may be formed thereof. For example, a majority or more of the exposed portions may be formed of the mesh-type material.
• The breathable materials allow for full air circulation. When a padded, soft breathable mesh material is utilized, further protection is provided to a child from bodily harm. When using one or more of the breathable mesh materials described herein, it is preferred that substantially no rebreathing of carbon dioxide occur when a child's face is in direct contact with the material.
• FIG. 9 shows a general illustrative block diagram embodiment of abreathable apparatus200 that includes abody portion210 having one ormore surfaces212. In one particular embodiment, thebody portion210 is useable in proximity to the respiratory orifices (e.g., mouth and nose) of ahuman being202. Further, in another embodiment, substantially all of the one or more surfaces are formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material, a material described herein.
• Thebreathable apparatus200 shown generally inFIG. 9 may include one or more various types of objects. For example, as shown inFIG. 10A-10B, the breathable apparatus may take the form of an object used to cover a child or other human being. For example, as shown inFIG. 10A, a breathable blanket220 including a body portion222 formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material is shown. Likewise, inFIG. 10B, abreathable comforter230 is shown that includes abody portion232 that is formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. It will be understood that thebody portions222,232 may be trimmed using any various finishing materials. For example, trim224 may be used along the edges of the breathable blanket220, as shown inFIG. 10A, and trim234 may be used to trim thebreathable comforter230 along its edges Likewise, abreathable material235 may be used in conjunction with the breathable integrated padded mesh material, as shown inFIG. 10B, as a back panel. In other words, the breathable integrated padded mesh material which forms the body portion may be configured as a single layer blanket or comforter formed only of the padded mesh material or the padded mesh material may be used in combination with one or more additional breathable layers as shown inFIG. 10C. For example, the configurations described above with reference to the crib shield systems may be used (e.g., cotton on one or both sides of the padded mesh material). As described above and as shown generally inFIG. 10C, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may be used in combination with one or more other material layers. For example, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may be used in combination with one or more layers of other material adjacent to (e.g., one material laid flat against the other) either the front substructure and/or back substructure of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. InFIG. 10C, one or more layers ofmaterial237 may be used adjacent the front substructure of the breathable integrated paddedmesh material238 and/or one or more layers ofmaterial239 may be used adjacent the back substructure thereof. One skilled in the art will recognize that various types of sizes and shapes may be used, as well as various types of breathable materials.
• Further, thebreathable apparatus200 may take the form of one or more other carrying apparatus. For example, as shown inFIG. 11A, abreathable bundle240 including a body portion242 is shown for carrying a baby. The body member242 defines avolume244 for receiving a child.
• As shown inFIG. 11B, a breathable carrier cover250 includes abody member252 that defines a volume (not shown) in which a carrier is received.
• FIG. 11C shows an illustrative embodiment of ababy carrier260. Thebaby carrier260 includes a body portion262 formed of at least a part of a breathable integrated padded mesh material according to the present invention that defines avolume264 for receiving a child. As one skilled in the art will recognize, various attachment mechanisms for use in attaching the carrier to another person are required. However, a substantial portion of the one or more surfaces forming thecarrier260, particularly those that would exist next to a child's face, are preferably formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material.
• FIG. 11D shows acar seat cover270 for acar seat269 including abody portion272 formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. Thebody portion272 forms or defines avolume274 in which a child is positioned. Once again, preferably, a substantial portion of all the surfaces of thecar seat cover270 are formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material.
• As shown inFIG. 11E, adouble headrest280 includes abody portion282 formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. Thebody portion282 defines avolume284 for receiving, for example, the head of a child.
• FIG. 11F shows a sleep positioner290 including abody portion292 formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. Thebody portion292 provides a definedvolume294 for receiving a portion of a child's body.
• One skilled in the art will recognize that various types of padding may be used in addition to the breathable integrated padded mesh material in order to form one or more of the shapes of the objects previously described herein. Further, for example, such padding materials may be the breathable integrated padded mesh material itself and/or other breathable materials, such as cotton, jersey, flannel, polyester, nylon, rayon, gabardine, terry cloth, etc.
• Thebreathable apparatus200, shown generally inFIG. 9, may also take the form of abreathable toy300, as shown inFIG. 12. Thebreathable toy300, shown inFIG. 12 as a teddy bear, includes abody portion302 formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. Further, trim material and variousdecorative elements304 will be used to accessorize the body portion302 (e.g., padded feet, a nose, eyes, etc.). Preferably, however, a majority of thetoy300 is covered with the breathable integrated padded mesh material.
• Further, preferably, any single portion oftrim material304 of the toy300 (or of any other apparatus described herein that includes the breathable padded mesh material) is smaller than that which could potentially block breathing of a child. Further, preferably, substantially the entire toy (or of any other apparatus described herein that includes the breathable padded mesh material) is formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material. As used herein, when substantially the entire apparatus is formed of the breathable integrated padded mesh material at least two-thirds of the object is formed thereof. For example, some material may still be used for decorative or other trimming purposes, including additional padding. However, such material is kept to portions that are smaller than those which may potentially block breathing of a child (e.g., through mouth and nose of a child). Further, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may cover less than a substantial portion. For example, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may cover just a majority of the apparatus.
• It will be recognized that the toy bear shown inFIG. 12 is but one illustrative embodiment of a toy that may utilize the breathable integrated padded mesh material. For example, dolls, or any other animal or stuffed toy, may be created using the breathable integrated padded mesh material.
• Yet further, thebreathable apparatus200 shown generally inFIG. 9 may take the form of breathable clothing or wearables, as shown inFIG. 13. For example, the breathable clothing310 may include a body portion312 that defines a volume (not shown) that may receive the body of a human or doll. Such clothing may be used as outerwear to be worn outside of other clothing or may be used as an inner layer or a single layer for covering the body of a human.
• Although many of such breathable apparatus may be preferably used with respect to children (e.g., to prevent suffocation), such breathable apparatus, shown generally inFIG. 9, may also be used at other age levels. For example, geriatrics may utilize a blanket having the breathable features described herein or wear breathable clothing, such as shown generally inFIG. 13.
• Further, the breathable integrated padded mesh material may be used with one or more of the following apparatus: Mats such as Play Gym Mats, Activity Mats, Sleeping Mats, Bath Mats, and Bathing Cushions; Activity and Soft Toys such as Hanging Soft Toys, Mobile Soft Toys, Musical Soft Toys, Interactive Soft Toys, Bath Soft Toys, Soft Toys with moving pieces, Car Seat Activity Centers, and Soft Dolls; Games such as Soft Puzzles, Soft Cutout Shapes, Soft Books, Cloth Books, and Photo Album Covers; Pads such as Mattress Pads, Changing Table Pads, Crib Pads, Crib Bumper Pads, Cradle Bumper Pads, Porta-Crib Bumper Pads, Play yard Covers and Pads, Sheet Savers, Contour Pads, Lap Burp Pads, and Floor Pads; Covers such as Changing Pad Covers, Dressing Table Pad Covers, Bouncer Covers, Swing Covers, Cradle Swing Covers, Seat Covers, Car Seat Covers, Carrier Covers, and Stroller Covers; Pillows such as Support Pillows, Wedges, Sleep Positioners, and Double Headrests; Blankets such as Comforters, Wearable Blankets, Receiving Blankets, and Stroller Blankets; Bags such as Nursery Organizers, Backpacks, Sleeping Bags, Luggage, Diaper Bags, and Carry Bags; Carriers such as Soft Carriers, Slings, and Bundles; Bedding such as Toddler Bedding, Crib Bedding, Cradle Bedding, Pillow Cases, and Pillow Case and Fitted Sheet in one; and Clothing such as Sports Clothing; Hats; Scarves; Jackets; Vests, and Outerwear.
• The preceding described embodiments are illustrative of the practice of the invention. It is to be understood, therefore, that other expedients known to those skilled in the art or disclosed herein may be employed without departing from the invention or the scope of the appended claims. For example, various apparatus or steps of one embodiment described herein may be used with one or more other embodiments described herein to form various combinations of methods, systems, or apparatus contemplated by the present invention. As such, the present invention includes within its scope other methods, systems and apparatus for implementing and using the invention described herein.

Claims (5)

What is claimed is:

1. A crib shield system, suitable for use with a crib, wherein the crib has a first and second side rail and a first and second endboard; wherein the first and second side rails and first and second endboards are configured for receiving a rectangular-shaped mattress; wherein the crib also includes four corner posts, wherein each corner post is constructed as part of a side rail, an endboard, or both; wherein at least one of the first and second side rails or the first and second endboards has a horizontal top bar and a plurality of vertical spaced support elements, wherein the crib shield system comprises:

a breathable liner comprised of a panel, wherein the panel is configured to cover at least a substantial portion of the first and second side rails and the first and second endboards with a breathable material comprising openings too small to permit an infant to insert a finger or toe therethrough; wherein the panel is comprised substantially of the breathable material; wherein the panel wraps around the perimeter of the rectangular-shaped mattress; and wherein the panel is rectangular.

2. The crib shield system ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one bottom fastening apparatus of the panel provided at one or more positions along the bottom edge of the panel.

3. The crib shield system ofclaim 1, wherein one or more fastening apparatus comprises a hook and loop fastener.

4. The crib shield system ofclaim 1, wherein the breathable material comprises a breathable integrated padded mesh material.

5. The crib shield system ofclaim 1, wherein the breathable material comprises a front substructure, a back substructure, and a pile substructure integrated with and extending between the front and back substructures, wherein each of the substructures allows air to substantially move effectively therethrough.

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